County of Union, New Jersey

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that it has voted to extend funding to The Simon Youth Foundation for another 18 months, beginning July 1, 2020 and concluding December 31, 2021, through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Out-of-School Youth Grant.

The Simon Youth Academy is a partnership between the Simon Youth Foundation, the Freeholder Board and the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools District. The academy was established at The Mills at Jersey Gardens Mall in 2018, providing at-risk youth an opportunity to earn a high school diploma.

Thirty-two students were enrolled during the 2019-2020 school year with a waiting list of students wanting to enroll.

 “The Freeholder Board is proud to continue to support the Simon Youth Academy in our community,” said Freeholder Chairman, Alexander Mirabella. “It provides a positive, supportive academic experience for our county’s at-risk youth and helps empower them to grow and reach their own individual goals.”

The Simon Youth Academy is the first school of its kind in New Jersey. It is one of more than 40 high schools in the U.S. established by the Simon Youth Foundation in partnership with local school districts. Located primarily at shopping malls owned by Simon Properties, the schools are designed to help make learning accessible to students who struggle to connect with material in a traditional classroom or school because of homelessness, bullying, serious illness, parenthood, supporting their families, or other challenging personal circumstances.

“I am pleased that the Simon Youth Academy is continuing to make a difference in the lives of at risk youth in Union County,” said Freeholder Sergio Granados, who announced the creation of the academy in 2018 as part of his “Moving Union County Forward” initiative during his term  as chairman. “I am a strong believer that education is the key to success and we will continue to champion this through various educational initiatives that benefit our residents. This academy is providing students with a second chance to gain a high school diploma through a different educational approach than in their local school district that is tailored to them.”

The Simon Youth Academy at The Mills has maintained a 100% graduation rate, with eight graduates in the 2018-2019 school year and 10 graduates in the 2019-2020 school year.

Over the summer of 2019 the Raymond J. Lesniak Experience Strength and Hope (E.S.H) recovery high school became the second Simon Youth Academy in New Jersey.

For information about enrollment, eligibility criteria and curriculum, please contact Simon Youth Academy Principal, Syreeta McClain, by phone at 908-977-1697 or by email at smcclain@ucvts.org.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for the free Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

New mail-in process aims at preventing spread of COVID-19 virus.

Union County, NJ – Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Farmers Market vouchers for eligible Union County seniors will be distributed only by mail. Each eligible senior can obtain six $5.00 vouchers for a total of $30.00 to purchase “Jersey Fresh” fruits, vegetables and herbs at Farmers Markets that display the black and yellow WIC posters.

To be eligible, seniors must be age 60 and older. A single person’s annual income cannot exceed $1,968 per month and a married couple’s combined income may not exceed $2,658 per month.

“The mail-only distribution process will enable seniors in need to continue engaging with a popular program that adds variety and nutritional value to daily meals while supporting local farmers,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

Eligible seniors can request a voucher application form by calling the Union County Division on Aging, 908-527-4870 or 888-280-8226, weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Requests can also be submitted after hours and on weekends, by leaving a voice message including name, address, and phone contact, or by emailing the information to Kathleen Malkiewicz, Nutrition Program Director, at kmalkiewicz@ucnj.org. Ms. Malkiewicz may also be reached at 908-527-4877 during office hours.

A limited number of vouchers are available and applications will be evaluated on a “first-come first-served” basis.

Face coverings and social distance are required when visiting Farmers Market sites during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Participating Farmers Market in Union County are located in:

• Cranford (Dreyer Farms, 831 Springfield Avenue)
• Elizabeth (Elizabeth Avenue Farmers’ Market, Union Square between Elizabeth Avenue and High Street)
• Kenilworth ( 455 Boulevard)
• Plainfield (Watchung Avenue and East 6^th Street, across from City Hall)
• Rahway (Rahway Farmer’s Market, at NJ Transit Train Station Plaza
• Roselle Park (Roselle ark Farmers’ Market, at Chestnut Street and East Grant Avenue)
• Scotch Plains (Scotch Plains Farmers’ Market, Municipal Parking Lot at 430 Park Avenue)
• Springfield (66 Mountain Avenue)
• Summit (Park & Shop #2, at Maple Street and DeForest Avenue)
• Westfield (NJ Transit Railroad Station, North Avenue Parking Lot)

For more information about the Farmers’ Market nutrition program, or any services provided by the Division of Aging and Disability Resource in the Union County Department of Human Services, call 1-888-280-8226, or visit online at ucnj.org/aging. Please note that in-person services are limited or modified at this time due to the COVID-19 outbreak

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for using the Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Union County, NJ — The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders reminds residents that free scrap metal recycling drop-off continues in August.  A wide variety of metal goods, from household appliances to gutters and sheds, are included in the program.

In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, participants in the drop-off program must remain in their cars with their window rolled up and face coverings on. Materials must be easily identifiable in the trunk, cargo area or truck bed for safe removal by staff.

“This countywide drop-off program helps to fill a service gap in some Union County municipalities,” said Freeholder Chairman Al Mirabella. “As a community, we benefit across the board by recycling more and throwing away less waste – and we also stand to gain some revenue from the program.”

Scrap metal will be accepted on Thursday, August 6 and Saturday, August 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at two designated drop off centers:

• Cranford: County Emergency Services Yard, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard

• Rahway: Rahway River Park (enter park from St. Georges Avenue and follow signs)

Acceptable items for recycling include aluminum scrap, aluminum cans, aluminum siding, bicycles, brass, copper, dishwashers, electric fans, fencing (chain/wire), freezers, gutters, irons, lawn furniture, metal cabinets, metal sheds, microwaves, pots and pans, railings, refrigerators, stoves, tire rims, toasters, washers and dryers, window frames (no glass), wire hangers, and more.

Please note that by law, the drop-off program will only accept refrigerators and freezers with doors removed. Items brought to the drop-off program with doors intact will not be accepted.

The August scrap metal drop-off dates are part of a series of free countywide monthly scrap metal recycling programs, available on the first Thursday and third Saturday of each month, from April through November.

For handy information and updates on scrap metal drop-off and all recycling programs in Union County, download the free Recycle Coach app for mobile devices. The app also provides fun, informative videos and other information on recycling.

More details about Recycle Coach and all Union County recycling programs are available online at ucnj.org/recycle, or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. 

For quick links to all Union County environmental events and activities visit The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connect.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for using the Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

County of Union, NJ – The Union County Freeholder Board is doubling the amount of funds available to assist small businesses under the Union County Covid-19 Relief Grant Program. The Freeholder Board initially authorized the grant program on July 9 with $2 million in funding. The Board added another $2 million in funding during its regular meeting on Thursday, July 23 for a total of $4 million. The additional funding will emphasize certified minority/women/veteran/LGBTQ/disabled owned businesses.

“We added another $2 million to the program due to the overwhelming response we received to the initial grant offering, and the emphasis on certified minority/women/veteran/LGBTQ/disabled owners will help ensure that small businesses in Union County continue to reflect our diverse population as we seek to regain our economic footing during this time of crisis,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “Small businesses make key contributions to the Union County economy and to our quality of life, and their survival is vital to our recovery as a community.”

Union County received more than 750 applications from businesses meeting the eligibility guidelines in response to the first round of $2 million in funding. The guidelines include having 25 employees or less before the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Union County Covid-19 Relief Grant Program is funded by the COVID-19 Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act Federal relief fund.

Qualified businesses can receive up to $20,000 in assistance for three month’s rent, property mortgage, utility and insurance expenses through the COVID-19 Relief Grant program.

Questions about the grant program can be sent to dmesaros@ucnj.org.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for the free Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Union County Freeholder Angela Garretson, Freeholder Sergio Granados, Freeholder Andrea Staten, Freeholder Rebecca Williams joined Assemblywoman Linda Carter, Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, Union County Manager Ed Oatman, Union County Department of Human Services Director Debbie-Ann Anderson, Union County Public Safety Director Andrew Moran and volunteers at a drive-up food distribution for Union County residents to aid those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic at Kean University in Union. The food distribution was sponsored and coordinated by the County of Union and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. As part of the collaboration, Stop & Shop donated fresh local produce to be distributed. (Photos by Jim Lowney/County of Union)

Union County, NJ – The Freeholder Board is offering a simple, easy way for residents to safely and properly dispose of unwanted household chemicals and other hazardous products.  The next Household Hazardous Waste recycling event will be held on Saturday, August 1st, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at the Union County Vocational Technical School located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. 

The event is free and open to Union County residents, disposing of approved household waste. Hazardous waste from businesses will not be accepted. The collection event will be held rain or shine. Proof of Union County residency is required.                                                                                                         

Among the items accepted for disposal are: outdated or unwanted household chemicals, mercury thermostats and thermometers, propane tanks, and automobile tires among many other items such as oil-based paint and varnish, antifreeze, aerosol cans, pool chemicals, corrosives, pesticides, herbicides, solvents, thinners, fire extinguishers, motor oil and oil filters, gasoline, batteries, thermostats, fluorescent bulbs (unbroken), and mercury switches. Car tires will also be collected during this event.  There is a limit of eight automobile tires, without rims, per household.

The Union County Police Bomb Squad will also be on hand at the event to assist with collection of unwanted ammunition and fireworks from residents. 

“This is the time and place to safely dispose of potentially dangerous items such as ammunition and fireworks thanks to the support of trained experts with the Union County Bomb Squad,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “These recycling events lead to safer homes and a cleaner environment for our families and our neighbors.”

This event will run in compliance with state COVID-19 orders, regarding social distancing and other protocols. All recipients must remain in their cars with windows rolled up at all times, otherwise masks are required. Materials should be placed in vehicles trunk, cargo area or truck bed, easily accessible to staff, who will remove it from the vehicle upon arrival.

Latex, acrylic, enamel and water-based paints (wall paint) are not accepted. Residents wishing to dispose of paint are advised to use it up or dry the paint out and discard it with regular garbage.  Only materials in original or labeled containers will be accepted. No containers larger than five gallons will be accepted.

For a complete list of the materials that will be accepted and as well as information on upcoming recycling event dates and locations, please call the Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889 or visit ucnj.org/recycle.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for using the Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Janna Williams, a military veteran and community advocate, has advanced to the final round of the Ms. Veteran America pageant, a national competition celebrating women who have served in the military and have established a record of service in their communities.

Janna serves as coordinator for Union County’s Office of Veteran Services.

“Janna Williams connects veterans with resources and programs, and she plays an invaluable role in the Freeholder Board’s commitment to serving our military community,” Said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “We would like to congratulate Janna and wish her much success as she competes for the title of Ms. Veteran America.”

Williams, a United States Air Force veteran from Roselle, is pursuing the title that honors her three years of service as an airman and her nearly twenty years of accomplishments as an advocate for military veterans.

 She serves veterans through her work coordinating veteran services in Union County and as the founder of Vets4U, a nonprofit organization that provides food, clothing and other resources to military veterans in need.

“I am beyond excited about making it to the finals,” said Williams who has lived in Roselle for nearly 16 years. “I consider myself a veteran’s advocate and a leader of the veteran community. This will give me the opportunity to take my advocacy and passion for helping veterans to a higher level.”

Williams worked in the pharmaceutical division of her military unit while stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas, and Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, California. During her service, she was named “Airman of the Quarter,” and received the Wing Commander “Attitude Is Everything” honor, along with other accolades.

After her service, she took a position in New Jersey as an Accredited Veteran Service Officer for the Union County Office of Veterans Services, and is a member of several civic, community and veteran service groups.

She served on the Roselle Board of Education and the Roselle planning board. Williams has also been recognized for her community service with the NCAAP Community Service Award in 2017, the United States Congress Award and other honors.

Williams is a single mother of three children: Jayla, Laci and Elijah. She is the daughter of Lorraine Shipp, a U.S. Navy veteran.

Williams competed on June 27 and 28 in a virtual competition and secured her spot in the final round, scheduled to be held on Oct. 11, 2020 in Orlando, Florida. The semifinals were originally scheduled to take place in Las Vegas but were converted to a virtual competition due to the coronavirus outbreak travel and social restrictions.

Williams is fundraising for Final Salute, Inc., a charity that helps homeless female veterans find shelter and other resources. Those interested in donating can make a donation through her Facebook page at JannaW4MVA2020 (https://www.facebook.com/JannaW4MVA2020/), her Twitter page at @JannaW4MVA2020 or by visiting https://charity.gofundme.com/finalsaluteinc

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for the free Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Masks and social distance required during COVID-19 outbreak.

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders announces that the next mobile paper shredding program of 2020 for personal and confidential documents will be held on August 8th, at Kean University in Union.

“Union County’s mobile document shredding service helps residents fight identity theft by providing a convenient way to shred your confidential documents,” said Freeholder Chairman Mirabella. “It promotes our County’s recycling efforts and ties in with other Green Initiatives in Union County.”

The August 8 shredding event will take place at Kean University on Morris Avenue in Union.  The program will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine.  The event will end before 1 p.m. if the shredding trucks reach capacity.  Residents should enter the University from the main entrance on Morris Avenue. 

Residents must wear face coverings, keep their windows closed and stay in their vehicles at all times.  Materials should be placed in vehicles trunk, cargo area or truck bed, easily accessible to staff, who will remove it from the vehicle

The next shredding event will be Saturday, September 12^th at Union County College on Springfield Avenue in Cranford, also from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

All Union County residents are eligible to use the paper-shredding service. In an effort to accommodate everyone, there is a limit of four, 10-pound bags or boxes per person. It is preferred that materials be brought in paper bags.

Documents should not be bound and plastic binders and paperclips should be removed. Paper that is wet/damp will not be accepted. Residents should continue to recycle non-confidential papers and magazines with their municipal recycling program.  Paper that is already shredded will not be accepted. 

Documents are put into 96-gallon containers provided by the shredding company. The items are then placed onto a conveyor belt and shredded on site. Participants are welcome to view the shredding process via a closed-circuit television. The shredded documents are then recycled via local paper mills. 

The mobile shredding program is paid for through New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Recycling Enhancement Act Grant Funds. For more information about future events or directions please call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889 or visit us online at www.ucnj.org/recycle.

The Freeholder Board also reminds residents to download the free Recycle Coach app for the latest news and information on all countywide and local recycling programs, located at www.ucnj.org/recycle.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including guidance for the free Drive-Through Test Center at Kean University, visit ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.

For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, visit the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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 Connect with Union County on social media.